The event took place Sunday afternoon at Spring Hill in South Berwick, Maine.

Fourteen dessert exhibitors were on hand, and guests were able to sample desserts throughout the day.

Martha Hewitt, executive director of the Cocheco Valley Humane Center, said everything featured at the event was donated.

"Spring Hill donated the space for us to use," she said. "All the items up for auction were donated, and all the desserts were donated. They donated their time, expertise and deliciousness."

The money raised at Sunday's event will support the humane society's care, feeding and sheltering of animals, as well as helping to cover medical and operating expenses, said Candi Enman-Root, development director.

Items up for bid at the silent auction included two passes to the Christa McAuliffe Planetarium, gift certificates, food bowls and beds for pets, artwork, a paintball package from OSG Paintball, a monthlong family membership to The Works, two round-trip airline tickets on Southwest Airlines and two Red Sox tickets for a game against the New York Yankees.

This year's turnout was the largest, Hewitt said.

"This is only my first time doing this event, but it has been going on a while, and over 200 is definitely the most we have ever seen," she said.

Along with the silent auction and desserts, the society honored two guests. Dr. Joanne Young, of the Cat Doctor in Dover, was given the President's Award for her services. Hewitt said the veterinarian's staff nominated her.

Melanie Cormier, of Rochester, was presented with the Best Friend Award. Cormier has been a longtime volunteer at the shelter.

Hewitt joked that Cormier was nominated by the animals.

"She goes above and beyond for the shelter," Hewitt said. "She is an awesome and wonderful volunteer."

Enman-Root said she makes her own treats for the animals at her house and even sews dog and cat beds to bring in.

"She really makes time to care for the animals and does all sorts of fundraising to help," she said.

Hewitt said she wanted to thank her staff, Jennifer Koos, the volunteer coordinator, and Shelly Miller.

"I've just got a great staff." Hewitt said. "They really all go above and beyond."